The ketogenic diet, commonly known as the keto diet, is characterized by its low-carbohydrate and high-fat composition, designed to induce a metabolic state called ketosis. Keto gummies have emerged as supplements that are marketed to support the ketogenic diet, aiding in weight loss, boosting energy and metabolism, and providing other benefits. It's crucial to examine the ingredients and purported effectiveness of these gummies, especially considering that dietary supplements are not subject to the same rigorous evaluation as medications.
Understanding Keto and Ketosis
The body primarily relies on carbohydrates for energy. However, when carbohydrate intake is severely restricted, the body enters a state of "nutritional ketosis," where it begins to break down fat for fuel instead. According to Katie Schwartz, a registered dietitian, achieving ketosis typically requires several days of strict carbohydrate restriction. Once in ketosis, the body produces ketones, which serve as an alternative energy source.
What are Keto Gummies?
Keto gummies are supplements designed to resemble regular chewable vitamins but are marketed with the promise of enhancing health benefits, specifically for those following a ketogenic diet. According to Schwartz, these gummies are promoted as a means to elevate ketone levels in the blood. Some keto gummies contain medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, which Rancourt explains can provide a quick source of energy.
Exogenous ketones, such as ketone salts and ketone esters, are produced externally and consumed orally. These differ from endogenous ketones, which are produced internally by the body. Ketone esters are considered more potent due to their chemical structure.
Do Keto Gummies Support Weight Loss?
Currently, there is limited research to support the claim that keto gummies effectively promote weight loss. Schwartz states that there is no credible evidence that keto gummies can reliably initiate or maintain ketosis, asserting that these products often rely on misleading marketing tactics.
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While being in ketosis is generally considered safe, individuals with underlying health conditions such as kidney disease or diabetes, pregnant or nursing women, children, and those on medications affecting blood sugar should avoid keto gummies, as noted by Rancourt.
Premier Keto ACV Gummies: A Closer Look
Premier Keto ACV Gummies are marketed as an advanced weight loss supplement containing beet root powder and pomegranate juice, ingredients known to help increase energy and reduce stomach fat. The company claims that these gummies provide a great taste, unlike many other diet fat burner supplements. They also state that the apple cider vinegar, beetroot juice, and folic acid in the gummies, combined with vitamin B12, help expedite detox and cleanse processes by supporting gut health and digestive function.
Customer Reviews: A Mixed Bag
Customer reviews for Premier Keto ACV Gummies are mixed, with some users reporting positive experiences and others expressing strong dissatisfaction.
Positive Reviews
- Some users have found these gummies to be a fantastic addition to their keto lifestyle, making it easier to stick to their diet without feeling deprived.
- Others highly recommend Premier Keto ACV Gummies as a sweet treat that aligns with a healthy, keto-friendly diet.
- Some customers are impressed with the gummies, considering them a perfect snack when needing something sweet while staying in ketosis.
- A few reviewers appreciate that the gummies are a tasty and easy way to incorporate the benefits of apple cider vinegar into their daily routine, noting the high-quality ingredients and lack of artificial flavors.
- One user mentioned that the gummies have been a life-saver on the keto diet, satisfying sweet cravings without disrupting ketosis, and praised the great service.
- Another user highlighted the natural fruit extracts and lack of hidden sugars, recommending them over other options.
Negative Reviews and Concerns
- Several customers have reported being charged for recurring shipments they did not authorize.
- Some reviewers claim the product simply does not work for weight loss and consider it a scam.
- Multiple users have described negative experiences with unauthorized auto-reorders and difficulty in canceling subscriptions, with one customer stating, "Buy once, and you are screwed!!!!!!"
- One reviewer was tricked into paying $198 for 5 bottles and found the ingredients to be basic dime store gummies, consisting mainly of corn syrup, sugar, and artificial flavors.
- Some customers who sought refunds were only offered refunds for unopened bottles, subject to a restocking fee.
- One user reported that the gummies did not work and described the company as a "garbage company." They were charged $200 instead of the advertised $39.99 and had difficulty contacting customer service.
Company Responses
The company has responded to some negative reviews, expressing regret that the customer's experience did not meet expectations. They offer to have an account manager reach out to understand the situation and provide guidance on how to consume the supplements for better results.
Concerns and Red Flags
The negative reviews raise several red flags:
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- Unauthorized Recurring Charges: Multiple customers have complained about being charged for auto-reorders they did not set up. This is a common tactic used by scam companies to generate recurring revenue.
- Ineffectiveness: Several users claim the product does not work and is a waste of money.
- Misleading Ingredients: One reviewer pointed out that the gummies are essentially made of corn syrup and sugar, contradicting the idea of a keto-friendly product.
- Poor Customer Service: Customers have reported difficulties in canceling subscriptions and obtaining refunds, indicating poor customer service practices.
Regulatory Considerations
It is important to remember that dietary supplements like keto gummies are not approved for safety or efficacy by the FDA. The ingredients and their amounts can vary, and the claims made by manufacturers may not be substantiated by scientific evidence.
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